As a child, I was captivated by the classic film version of The Parent Trap featuring Hayley Mills, which I believe outshines the Lindsay Lohan remake. The idea of having a twin sister—ideally one living on a ranch in California—was a thrilling dream. The notion of spending an entire summer at camp seemed both adventurous and slightly intimidating. However, aside from one unfortunate week at a Girl Scout horseback riding camp in Florida—complete with an ant invasion—I never experienced sleepaway camp myself, nor did I gain a surprise twin sibling.
When my children reached elementary school age, I was determined to send them to summer camp for at least a week or two, ideally in a beautiful setting filled with mountains, waterfalls, and campfire songs. While the thought of sending my kids off without me was nerve-wracking, my independent firstborn quickly convinced me to let him go. Before I knew it, I was packing shower shoes and marking socks with our last name, and off he went.
This summer marks the fifth year I’m sending my boys to a camp nestled in the western North Carolina mountains, and I know they will cherish the experience. However, I am also bracing myself for what I call ‘Refresh Button Syndrome: Sleepaway Camp Edition’.
If you’ve ever sent a child to sleepaway camp, you’re likely familiar with this phenomenon. Initially, we maintain a brave front as we drop our kids off at their cabins, filled with excitement for the freedom that lies ahead. The thought of uninterrupted time for errands, manicures, and date nights fills our minds. But here’s the reality: we soon find ourselves glued to our devices, obsessively refreshing the camp’s photo updates to catch a glimpse of our little ones.
Refresh. Refresh. Refresh.
When those photos finally emerge, the disappointment can be overwhelming if our children aren’t featured. Is that a glimpse of my child’s sleeve in the background of the hundredth photo? I could have sworn I recognized that Lands’ End shirt I ordered. Alas, it turns out I’m mistaken, and I find myself questioning their whereabouts.
I have to admit, there have been moments when I’ve reached out to the camp to confirm my child’s presence, especially after days without a single photo. The relentless refreshing takes a toll as I imagine the worst—are they safe? What if something has happened?
Refresh. Refresh. Refresh.
Yet, the reality is that they are thriving, engaging in activities like Predator/Prey and Capture the Flag, learning essential skills like juggling and fire-starting, and enjoying their time without screens. They are simply experts at evading the camp photographer. Did they forget that their mother is eagerly waiting for a glimpse of their smiling faces?
In the coming weeks, I will diligently prepare for camp once again. I’ll label their belongings and pack clothes, some of which will undoubtedly be sacrificed to the mud and elements. I’ll take them for physicals and drive them down the winding dirt road to the lush fields and familiar cabins. I’ll remind them to be responsible and to wear sunscreen, and I’ll pray they consider deodorant.
And yes, I may resort to bribing them with promises of treats if they will just make an effort to step in front of the camera at least once each day. The urge to refresh is already building within me.
In a humorous twist, I still dream of attending camp, Hayley Mills-style.
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In summary, sending kids to sleepaway camp brings a mix of excitement and anxiety for parents. While we relish the freedom, the urge to constantly check in via digital updates can be overwhelming. Embracing the experience while ensuring our children’s happiness is key.
Keyphrase: Sleepaway Camp Parenting
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